Why Pet Insurance is Essential for Expatriates in Spain
You’re about to move to Spain (or maybe you’re already here), and you’ve been told you need expat health insurance. You search on Google and suddenly find hundreds of options, prices, and conditions… but no one clearly answers the big question: What should I know before getting health insurance as an expat in Spain?
Stick with us. Not only will we answer that question, but we’ll also give you a list of the 10 key questions that will help you make the best decision for yourself and your family. Questions many expats forget to ask—until it’s too late.
Why is it so important to choose the right health insurance as an expat?
If you’re a foreigner living (or planning to live) in Spain, you might need private health insurance for several reasons:
- Your residence visa or work permit requires it.
- You don’t yet have access to the public healthcare system.
- You want faster service with care in your own language.
But not all insurance plans are created equal. Choose the wrong one, and you could end up paying a lot for very little.
The 10 Key Questions to Ask Before Choosing Expat Health Insurance in Spain
1. Is this insurance valid for visa or residency applications?
Some health insurance plans don’t meet the Spanish government’s requirements. For example, if you’re applying for a non-lucrative or student visa, your insurance must be:
- Without co-payments.
- With full coverage in Spain.
- With no waiting periods for medical services.
Tip: Ask if the plan is approved for immigration processes—it can save you a lot of trouble.
2. Does it cover primary care and specialists?
Many cheap plans look appealing at first, but then you find out they only cover emergencies or don’t allow direct access to specialists. A good health plan should include:
- General practitioner visits.
- Direct access to specialists (no referrals needed).
- In-person and video consultations.
3. What is the waiting period?
The waiting period is the time you must wait before using certain services (like surgeries, childbirth, or special tests).
For example, some insurers require:
- 6 months for complex tests.
- 10 months for childbirth.
Always ask about waiting times—especially if you’ll need care soon.
4. Can I use the insurance from day one?
Closely related to waiting periods: Are there services you can access immediately?
A good expat health plan should offer instant access to:
- General medical care.
- Emergencies.
- Pediatric care (if you have children).
5. Am I covered if I’m in another city or traveling within Spain?
If you live in Málaga but travel to Madrid for work or tourism, can you see a doctor there? Expat health insurance in Spain should offer:
- Nationwide coverage.
- Access to clinics across regions.
- 24/7 emergency phone line.
6. Is the insurance tailored for expats?
This is key. A plan made for locals might be very different from one designed for expats. Look for services like:
- Support in English (or your language).
- Visa documentation assistance.
- International medical network access.
7. Which hospitals and clinics are included?
It’s not just about having coverage. Ask about the insurer’s medical network:
- Does it include reputable hospitals?
- Can you choose your provider?
- Are there clinics near where you live?
Make a list of nearby hospitals and confirm if they’re covered.
8. Does it include dental or pharmacy benefits?
Many health plans exclude dental care or prescriptions—or only cover them under certain conditions. Ask if they offer:
- Free dental cleanings.
- Discounts on orthodontics.
- Partial reimbursement for medications.
9. Can I add my partner or children?
If you’re coming with your family, look into family plans:
- Can you include other people?
- Are there group discounts?
- Is pediatric care included?
A single family plan can be more affordable and convenient.
10. What digital or extra services are included?
Some insurers offer great digital tools, especially useful for expats:
- Video calls with doctors.
- Electronic prescriptions.
- Diagnosis translations.
- Travel assistance or medical repatriation.
These extras can make a big difference in urgent situations.
We know that moving to a new country is already a challenge. Having the right expat health insurance in Spain gives you peace of mind and fast access to care.
But beyond price, make sure your plan:
- Meets legal requirements.
- Offers a solid medical network.
- Speaks your language.
- Fits your lifestyle.
And most importantly: ask the right questions before signing up.
At The Insurance Centre, we help thousands of expats every year find the health insurance they truly need. If you have questions, we’re here to help—no commitment required.
